Britain Sends Jets to Saudi Arabia

The UK is set to deploy fighter jets to Saudi Arabia to defend against Houthi attacks, according to Novara Media. The move comes as Egypt considers its own military commitment to the region, with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi requesting parliamentary authorisation to act in Saudi Arabia's defence if asked.

Middle East Eye reports that Egypt must consider the potential risks of entering direct combat against Yemen's Houthis, including the exposure of its infrastructure and economy. The consequences of such a move could reach far beyond the forces Cairo deploys, threatening the infrastructure through which Egypt earns foreign currency and supplies its economy.

Egypt's potential involvement in the conflict could widen the exposure to the Sumed pipeline and associated energy infrastructure, including terminals and fuel storage facilities. Saudi Arabia's experience has shown that advanced weapons or American ties do not guarantee protection, with repeated strikes on airports and energy infrastructure exposing gaps in Saudi defences.

The debate in Egypt is being restricted, with public discussion of the potential military commitment being systematically suppressed. The Egyptians who would bear the human and economic costs of a war are being asked to contemplate it without being told its objectives, limits or price.